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An exploration of addiction: The teen years

Recreational drug and alcohol use is oftentimes perceived as harmless, non-habit-forming behavior. In reality millions suffer from substance-abuse disorders that surfaced under the mask of recreational use. In this installment of our Exploration of Addiction series, we examine how addiction can take hold when our brains are at their most vulnerable and when life is at its most confusing – the adolescent years.

The root of our addictive behavior can be traced back to a time when our lives were ruled by raw emotion and thoughtless impulses thanks in large part to a developing brain. Dr. Jay Giedd at the National Institute of Mental Health studied the brains of teenagers and discovered a second “period of over-production of synapses” thought to only take place in babies. The study focuses on the surprising late-childhood growth and maturity of the frontal cortex, supporting the common belief that adolescents take more risks because their brains undergo tremendous change during these years.

Adding to the complexity of a maturing brain, teens actively look for their place in the world. We are a social species, who long to be part of a tribe of other like individuals. We need to belong. This biological fact dates back millennia and its purest form is manifested in teenagers, how they bully each other, how they celebrate together, and how they collaborate as peers in art, theater, music, and community service.

However, an immature brain coupled with a primitive drive to belong and unrelenting societal pressure may create a perfect storm for teenagers to seek out drugs and alcohol. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), early abuse often includes tobacco, alcohol, inhalants, marijuana, and prescription drugs such as sleeping pills and anti-anxiety medicines.

Access – Teenagers see a lot of people using various substances. Coupled with peer pressure, drug and alcohol use can seem to be a normal part of the teenage experience.

Popular media – A study by the Journal of Medical Internet Research showed that only 9% of the audience (primarily 17 – 19 year olds) of a popular pro-marijuana handle associated risky health behaviors with drugs and alcohol use. The rest of the perceptions were positive and correlated substance abuse as light-hearted and humorous.

Escape and self-medication – The teenage years are notorious for roller coaster-like emotions, a fluctuating sense of self-worth, and in many instances depression. Given a chance to take something that may alleviate these negative emotions, many can’t resist.

Boredom – To fill a void, kill time, or simply to relate to like-minded teens, alcohol and drugs may provide a quick cure for boredom and a path towards bonding with peers.

Rebellion – Rebellion may be manifested in the use of drugs and alcohol.

Lack of confidence – As adults, we’re familiar with the term “liquid courage.” The same principle applies to teens who are shy, lack confidence, and don’t naturally fit in. The use of drugs and alcohol can be seen as a solution to social anxiety.

Misinformation – Friends are powerful influencers and teens can oftentimes be willing to believe a friend’s misinformation about substances like marijuana, alcohol, pills, or even LSD.

Adolescent drug use can have long-lasting effects on the developing brain and may interfere with family, positive peer relationships, and school performance. Prevention through education, communication, and resources like NIDA for teens can boost awareness and understanding about how substance abuse and addiction can affect both life and work.

In this series, we continue to add facts to the conversation and help to better inform parents, caretakers, educators, employers, and those who may be struggling with addiction and substance-abuse disorders. To learn more about this series, read our introductory post.

If you or someone you know is unable to stop using drugs or alcohol, seek a referral from your primary care physician or locate an addiction specialist through the American Society of Addiction Medicine.